LOŠINJ ISLAND IN CROATIAThe Bottlenose Dolphins colony, inhabiting the local waters of Lošinj area, witness its cleanliness and make it unique

The Lošinj Marine Education Centre ("LMEC"), situated in Veli Lošinj, is the first educational and interpretational centre about the marine environment on the Croatian coast. The centre was opened in 2003 by the Blue World Institute of Marine Research and Conservation, in order to make information and educational contents that explain biology, research and protection of a marine ecosystem available to as many people as possible. Encouraging general understanding of environmental issues represents a basis of efficient nature protection which is the final aim of Blue world’s efforts.

Activities in the Centre are divided into two different parts – the ground floor is a public, exhibition, interactive area opened for all visitors. In this area a permanent exhibition is set up consisting of the photos, three-dimensional models and preparations as well as multimedia and interactive presentations that explain the complex natural principles existing in the sea. There is also a kids corner with educational materials for pre-school children such as simple models and puzzles of sea animals, colouring plates, drawing and modelling mats etc.

On the upper floor there is conference room for specialized work and educational programmes such as workshops about marine ecosystem adjusted for different age and interest groups (school and university students, divers, fishermen, biologists, tourist professionals etc.), lectures, discussions, scientific meetings etc. This room includes a library with scientific, professional and popular literature available to everybody.

Materials and activities in the Centre promote sustainable development and nature protection concept which makes LMEC an ideal location for promoting positive awareness about the necessity as well as the possibilities for protection of the marine environment.

By participating in the Blue World "Adopt a dolphin" campaign you can make your own contribution to the research and preservation of the dolphins. Your donation will help the continuation of the project and in return you can get a T-shirt, Adoption Certificate, photo of your dolphin with informative text and a leaflet on Blue World - "Aquamarin".

Those of you who wish to get an insight into the life of the dolphins and see them playing somewhere at sea, don't miss our "Meet the Dolphins" boat excursion.